Animal Technician I

Please apply to this role at: https://careers-fhcrc.icims.com/jobs/26986/animal-technician-i/job

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington.

With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world’s deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.

At Fred Hutch we value collaboration, compassion, determination, excellence, innovation, integrity and respect. These values are grounded in and expressed through the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our mission is directly tied to the humanity, dignity and inherent value of each employee, patient, community member and supporter. Our commitment to learning across our differences and similarities make us stronger. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems. Fred Hutch is in pursuit of becoming an anti-racist organization. We are committed to ensuring that all candidates hired share our commitment to diversity, anti-racism and inclusion.

The Animal Technician I performs routine animal husbandry tasks, and maintenance of animal facilities and equipment. This is considered an entry level position for individuals with no prior experience in laboratory animal care procedures or individuals who are transitioning from other animal care positions. Focus will be on gaining skills. The incumbent works under the Animal Technician Lead following established procedures in performing daily responsibilities. The Technician I position reports directly to the Animal Husbandry Manager. This position is under close supervision with no responsibility for supervision others. Incumbent is expected to acquire skills and knowledge to perform more advanced work through training. Uses limited discretion and judgement in carrying out tasks. The Animal Technician I is classified as essential personnel and, as such, is required to work with a minimal number of absences and during all Center closures except in the event of a major disaster when access to animal housing and use facilities is prohibited by governmental emergency personnel.

Responsibilities

- Animal Care: Learn and become proficient in providing care for all small animal species (mice, rats) on a daily basis in accordance with standard operating procedures. Learn to evaluate animals’ general health, report abnormalities to veterinary staff.

- Husbandry Operations: Learn and become proficient in animal husbandry procedures including using and maintaining animal housing. Expected to master changing a minimum of 120 small cages per day. Learn to and become proficient in operation of equipment washers, automatic water bottle filling systems and autoclaves under supervision.

- Sanitation Operations: Learn and become proficient in performing housekeeping duties such as sweeping, mopping, garbage removal, and equipment washing in animal housing areas and surrounding premises. Learn and become proficient in appropriate sanitation procedures.

- Researcher Support: Learn and become proficient in effectively communicating with research staff through verbal, written, or electronic means. Learn appropriate regulatory and safety regulations surrounding biomedical research.

- Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

- High school diploma or equivalent.

- Good verbal and written English communication skills.

- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions that are presented in English.

- Ability to lift and move 50 lbs on a regular basis and sustained physical activities such as bending, balancing, stooping, reaching, and remain standing for long periods of time.

- Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment including scrubs, gloves, shoe covers, gowns, ear plugs / muffs, face mask, and eye protection.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

- Science and animal husbandry background.

- Maintenance of a valid Washington State Driver’s License and good driving record.

The hourly pay range for this position is from $20.00 to $26.73 and pay offered will be based on experience and qualifications.